
L 



J LIBRARY 0F CONGRESS J 
# 




I UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | 



THE 



PROBATIONER'S MANUAL. 



REV. E. C. BASS, 

OF THE SEW HAMPSHIRE CONFERENCE. 



13 

il 



CINCINNATI : 
HITCHCOCK AND WALDEN. 
NEW YORK: NELSON & PHILLIPS. 
1875. 



or CONGHESS 
WASHINGTON 



,13 3 



Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1875, 

BY HITCHCOCK & WALDEN, 
In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washinj^ton. 



ANNOUNCEMENT. 



The only condition required of those 
who seek admission into the Methodist 
societies is,'" u a desire to flee from the wrath 
to come, and to be saved from their sins." 
In order that the Church may test this 
desire, whether it be sincere or otherwise, 
the candidates for membership are put upon 
probation for six months, under the care of 
a leader. At the end of this time, if they 
have continued faithful and are recom- 
mended by their leader, they may be ad- 
mitted as members. Before this admission, 
they must first have read, and give their 
assent to, our " Articles of Eeligion," and 
express their willingness to be governed by 



4 



ANNOUNCEMENT. 



our "General Eules." To furnish the pro- 
bationer with these items, and to set forth 
the Scripture proofs of the same, is the 
design of this little volume. It is a neat, 
compact, and portable Manual, and should 
be put into the hands of every probationer 
as soon as his name is enrolled in the 
Church lists. 

The Publishers. 



THE PROBATIONER'S MANUAL. 



SECTION I. 

PROBATION. 

At the organization of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church in 1784, a probation of 
"at least two months" was appointed to the 
candidate for Church membership. In 1789, 
the term of probation was extended to " at 
least six months." 

A person becomes a probationer (joins 
the class, or joins the Church on trial) by 
giving his name to a pastor in the JVlethod- 
ist Episcopal Church, to be written in the 
list of candidates for membership. "There 
is only one condition previously required of 
those who desire admission into these soci- 
eties, 'a desire to flee from the wrath to 
come, and to be saved from their sins.' " 

The probationer is under no obligation 

5 



6 probationer's manual. 



to join the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
He may at any time insist upon having his 
name " dropped." He is at liberty at any 
time to unite with any other Church in 
which he concludes to find his home — com- 
mon courtesy only requiring that he notify 
his Methodist pastor of his proposed change 
of relations. 

Neither is the Church obligated to receive 
the probationer to full membership. If he 
"run well for a season" only, and can not 
be persuaded to follow the Savior, his name 
is to be dropped by the pastor as quietly as 
it was received. The term of probation is 
an opportunity for the Church and the can- 
didate for membership to prove each other. 
The relation may be dissolved by either 
party at will, and it is to result in fall mem- 
bership only when both parties desire it. 
Between the Church and the probationer 
the interests are mutual, and the obligations 
are correspondent. 

Probation is a prudential arrangement 
which commends itself. It is a benefit to 
both parties. It gives to the truly penitent 
and the young convert all needed spiritual 
privileges at once and when most needed, 



probationer's manual. 



7 



and without requiring an early and per- 
haps hasty decision of the question of a 
Church home. And, as we ' : know them by 
their fruits" in the daily life, the Church is 
thus enabled to judge intelligently of the 
fitness of candidates for membership. 

A probation longer than six months is 
often desired by candidates, and is willingly 
granted (and may be required) by the 
Church ; but this term ought to suffice to 
enable any one to decide whether his spir- 
itual home is in the ilethodist Episcopal 
Church. And the probationer, faithful to 
his duties and privileges six months, seldom 
fails to decide this question. 

A probationer can not hold the office of 
steward in the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
He may be a Sunday-school superintendent 
or class-leader, but in neither of these offices 
can he be a member of the quarterly con- 
ference. He can not be authorized to preach. 
He can not be the "accuser" of a member 
in a Church trial, though, like any other 
person " of good report," he may be a wit- 
ness. A probationer can not be "accused," 
and brought to trial and expelled. At the 
worst, he can only be " dropped." 



8 



probationer's manual. 



The probationer should diligently study 
the doctrines, polity, and prudential ar- 
rangements of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and thoroughly compare its stand- 
ards and usages with those of other denom- 
inations, in order that graduation to Church 
membership may be with intelligence, as 
well as piety. 

The probationer should improve an early 
opportunity to confess Christ in baptism. 
Having resolved on holy living, it is better 
to go forward in all privileges and duties 
as rapidly as the order of the Church will 
allow. 

Class-meetings, and other means of grace 
peculiar to Methodism should be thoroughly 
proved by constant and conscientious at- 
tendance. The letter of Methodism can be 
learned from books, but the spirit and power 
and life are to be studied in its songs and 
prayers aud testimonies. It is a misfortune 
to the Methodist Episcopal Church that any 
probationer should come to full member- 
ship without having learned to prize the 
class-meeting. It is no less a misfortune to 
the new member. 

And the probationer is counseled to begin 



PROBATIONER'S MANUAL. 



9 



at once to use his talents, one or more, in 
the prayer-meetings. The Church, of every 
name, needs praying and witnessing mem- 
bers. " It is good for a man that he bear 
the yoke in his youth." This yoke seldom 
comes to be easy unless it be borne when a 
man is young in religious experience. STo 
man that is in earnest about religion can 
begin too soon to "pray and speak." For 
his own good, and for his usefulness all 
through life, every probationer should begin 
at once to accept responsibility in these 
public religious duties. 



10 probationer's manual. 



SECTION II. 

BAPTISM AND THE COVENANT. 

In the Methodist Episcopal Church the 
candidate for baptism has the "choice either 
of immersion, S£)rinkling, or pouring." Bap- 
tism must precede fall membership in the 
Church. "Baptized children" are not to be 
"admitted to full membership in our Church " 
until they have "publicly assented before the 
Church to the baptismal covenant, and also 
to the usual questions on doctrines and dis- 
cipline." 

The probationer will find but few pages - 
in the Discipline of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church either more interesting or more im- 
portant than this covenant. Most thorough 
and prayerful study of the covenant is nec- 
essary in order to be prepared in mind and 
heart to assume these vows. The candidate 
for baptism can not be too familiar with 



probationer's manual. 



11 



these declarations of faith and promises of 
faithfulness. 

The responses in the baptismal service 
should be given audibly. 

The following arrangement will show at 
a glance the covenant, and a Scriptural war- 
rant for the covenant, which the Methodist 
Episcopal Church requires of persons to be 
baptized at her altars : 

Quest. Dost thou renounce the 
devil and all his works, the vain 
pomp and glory of the world, with 
all covetous desires of the same, 
and the carnal desires of the flesh, 
so that thou wilt not follow or be 
led by them? 

Stand against the wiles of the devil. (Eph. vi. 11.) 
Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of 
darkness. (Eph. v, 11.) Be not conformed to this 
world. (Rom. xii, 2.) Love not the world, neither 
the things that are in the world. (1 John ii, 15.) The 
carnal mind is enmity against God. (Rom. viii, 7.) 
They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh ; with 
the affections and lusts. (Gal. t, 24.) 

Aiis. I renounce them all. 



12 



probationer's manual. 



Quest Dost thou believe in God, 
the Father Almighty, Maker of 
heaven and earth? 

I am the Almighty God. (Gen. xvii, 1.) God the 
Father. (Gal. i. 1.) Thou hast made heaven and 
earth. (Is. xxxvii, 16.) 

And in Jesus Christ his only-be- 
gotten Son our Lord? and that he 
was conceived by the Holy Ghost, 
born of the Virgin Mary? 

God sent his only-begotten Son. (1 John iv, 9.) 
His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. (Rom. i, 3.) Then 
said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be? . . ,, 
And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy 
Ghost shall come upon thee and the power of the 
Highest shall overshadow thee; therefore also that 
holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called 
the Son of God. (Luke i, 34, 35.) 

That he suffered under Pontius 
Pilate, was crucified, dead, and 
buried ; that he rose again the 
third day; 

Pilate . . . delivered Jesus ... to be 
crucified. (Mark xv, 15.) And Pilate marveled if he 



probationer's manual. 13 



were already dead. . . . And when he knew it 
. . . he gave the body to Joseph. And he . . . 
took him down, . . . and laid him in a sepulcher, 
. . . and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepul- 
cher. (Mark xv, 44-46.) Him God raised up the third 
day. (Acts x, 40.) 

That he ascended into heaven, and 
sitteth at the right hand of God 
the Father Almighty, 

He was received up into heaven, and sat on the 
right hand of God. (Mark xvi, 19.) 

And from thence shall come again, 
at the end of the world, to judge 
the quick and the dead? 

The Lord himself shall descend from heaven. (1 
Thess. iv, 16.) The Lord Jesus Christ . . . shall 
judge the quick and the dead at his appearing. (2 
Tim. iv, 1.) 

And dost thou believe in the 
Holy Ghost, 

The Comforter, . . . the Spirit of truth, . . . 
he shall testify of me. (John xv, 26.) The Spirit of 
truth, ... he will guide, ... he shall hear, 
. . . he shall speak, ... he will show you 
things to come. (John xvi, 13.) 



14 PROBATIONER'S MANUAL. 



The holy catholic Church, 

One body in Christ, and every one members one of 
another. (Rom. xii, 5.) 

The communion of saints; 

Let us consider one another to provoke unto love 
and to good works. (Heb. x, 24.) Let us do good, 
. . . especially unto them who are of the household 
of faith. (Gal. vi, 10.) Then they that feared the 
Lord spake often one to another. . . . And they 
shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts. (Mai. iii, 
16, 17.) 

The remission of sins ; 

Repent and be baptized ... for the remission 
of sins. (Acts ii, 38.) 

The resurrection of the bodv, and 
everlasting life after death? 

All that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and 
shall come forth. (John v, 28, 29.) These shall go 
away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous 
into life eternal. (Matt, xxv, 46.) 



Ans. All this I steadfastly be- 
lieve. 



probationer's manual. 



15 



Quest. Wilt thou be baptized in 
this faith? 

If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. 
And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ 
is the Son of God. . . . And he baptized him. 
(Acts viiij 37, 38.) 

Arts. This is my desire. 

Quest. Wilt thou then obediently 
keep God's Holy will and com- 
mandments; and walk in the same 
all the days of thy life ? 

If ye love me, keep my commandments. (John 
xiv, 15.) 

Ans. I will endeavor so to do, 
God being my helper. 

My grace is sufficient for thee. (2 Cor. xii, 9.) 



16 probationer's manual. 



SECTION III. 

ARTICLES OF RELIGION. 

At his reception to full membership in 
the Church, the probationer is asked the fol- 
lowing question upon doctrines : " Do you 
believe in the doctrines of Holy Scripture, 
as set forth in the Articles of Religion of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church?" 

This question embraces so much that it is 
well to give the young Christian six months 
in which to prepare to answer it. Every 
Christian finds occasion to defend the faith. 
Ability to state doctrine and give Scripture 
proof is indispensable in coping with the 
world and the devil. The candidate for 
membership in the Methodist Episcopal 
Church should thoroughly study these sum- 
maries of doctrine, comparing every point 
with the letter and spirit of the Word of God. 

These articles are twenty-five in number. 
Twenty-four of them were abridged by Mr. 



probationer's manual. 



17 



"Wesley from the Thirty-nine Articles of the 
Church of England, and at his suggestion 
the Methodist Episcopal Church adopted 
them as its doctrinal basis. - The twenty- 
third Article was adopted in addition to 
those recommended by Mr. "Wesley. 

Verbal changes were made in these Arti- 
cles from time to time until 1S32. It was 
then enacted that the " General Conference 
shall not revoke, alter, or change our Arti- 
cles of Beligion. nor establish any new 
standards or rules of doctrine contrary to 
our present existing and established stand- 
ards of doctrine." 

These doctrines are not peculiar to Meth- 
odism. Evangelical Churches generally hold 
these same Scripture truths. The most con- 
siderable exception regards "the baptism of 
young children." Wesley's good rule was 
to preserve the orthodoxy by maintaining 
the piety of his societies, and so he insisted 
upon the deepest things in the experience, 
the best things in the life, and only the few 
essentials in the belief. 

The probationer may or may not accept 
some peculiar teachings of Methodism; he is 
asked concerning his belief in only these 

2 



18 probationer's manual. 



summaries of doctrine. And the question 
proposed is whether he believes them to be 
doctrines of the Bible — not whether he fully 
comprehends and can perfectly explain them. 

L Of Faith in the Holy Trinity. 

There is but one living and true 
God, everlasting, without body or 
parts, of infinite power, wisdom, 
and goodness; the maker and pre- 
server of all things, visible and in- 
visible. And in unity of this God- 
head there are three persons, of one 
substance, power, and eternity, the 
Father, the Son, and the Holy 
Ghost. 

I am God, and there is none else. (Is. xlv, 22.) 
To us there is but one God. (1 Cor. viii, 6.) I lift up 
my hand to heaven and say, I live forever. (Deut. 
xxxii, 40.) The only true God. (John xvii, 3.) Even 
from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God. (Ps. 
xc, 2.) God is a Spirit. (John iv, 24.) A spirit hath 
not flesh and bones. (Luke xxiv, 39.) With God all 
things are possible. (Mark x, 27.) His understanding 



probationer's manual. 



19 



is infinite. (Ps. cxlvii, 5.) The goodness of God en- 
dureth continually. (Ps. Hi, 1.) I am the Lord, that 
maketh all things. (Is. xliv, 24.) And thou preservest 
them all. (Neh. ix, 6.) Let us make man. (Gen. 
i ? 26.) The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the 
love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be 
with you all. (2 Cor. xiii, 14.) Baptizing them in 
the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the 
Holy Ghost. (Matt, xxviii, 19.) 

II. Of the Word, or Son of God, who was 

MADE VERY MAN. 

The Son, who is the Word of the 
Father, the very and eternal God, 
of one substance with the Father, 
took man's nature in the womb of 
the blessed virgin; so that two 
whole and perfect natures, that is 
to say, the Godhead and manhood, 
were joined together in one person, 
never to be divided, whereof is one 
Christ, very God and very man, 
who truly suffered, was crucified, 
dead, and buried, to reconcile his 



20 probationer's manual. 



Father to us, and to be a sacrifice, 
not only for original guilt, but also 
for the actual sins of men. 

His name is called the Word of God. (Rev. xix, 
13.) And the Word was God. (John i, 1.) I and my 
Father are one. (John x, 30.) And the Word was 
made flesh. (John i, 14.) A virgin shall conceive 
and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. 
(Is. vii, 14.) Which being interpreted is, God with us. 
(Matt, i, 23.) He took on him the seed of Abraham. 
(Heb. ii, 16.) In him dwelleth all the fullness of the 
Godhead bodily. (Col. ii, 9.) God hath made that 
same Jesus whom ye have crucified both Lord and 
Christ. (Acts ii, 36.) This man, after he had offered 
one sacrifice for sins, forever sat down on the right 
hand of God. (Heb. x, 12.) My soul is exceeding 
sorrowful. (Matt, xxvi, 38.) They crucified him. 
(Matt, xxvii, 35.) They came to Jesus, and saw that 
he was dead already. (John xix, 33.) He laid him 
in a sepulcher which was hewn out of a rock, and 
rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulcher. (Mark 
xv, 46.) Delivered for our offenses. (Rom. iv, 25.) 
The propitiation . . . for the sins of the whole 
world. (1 John ii, 2.) The Lord hath lain on him the 
iniquity of us all. (Is. liii, 6.) It behooved him to 
be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a 
merciful and faithful high-priest in things pertaining 
to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the 
people. (Heb. ii, 17.) 



probationer's manual. 21 



III. Of the Resurrection of Christ. 

Christ did truly rise again from 
the dead, and took again his body, 
with all things appertaining to the 
perfection of man's nature, where- 
with he ascended into heaven, and 
there sitteth until he return to 
judge all men at the last clay. 

Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: 
handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and 
bones, as ye see me have. (Luke xxiv, 89.) He was 
received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of 
Gocl. (Mark xvi, 19.) The Son of man shall come in 
the glory of his Father with his angels, and then he 
shall reward every man according to his works. 
(Matt, xvi, 27.) 

IV 5 Of the Holy Ghost. . 

The Holy Ghost, proceeding from 
the Father and the Son, is of one 
substance, majesty, and glory with 
the Father and the Son, very and 
eternal God. 



22 probationer's manual. 

The Comforter, . . . whom I will send unto 
you, . . . even the Spirit of truth, which proceed- 
eth from the Father. (John xv, 26.) That he may 
abide with you forever. (John xiv, 16.) If any man 
love me, . . . my Father will love him, and we 
will come unto him, and make our abode with him. 
(John xiv, 23.) Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine 
heart to lie to the Holy Ghost? . . . Thou hast 
. . . lied . . . unto God. (Acts v, 3, 4.) 

V. The Sufficiency of the Holy Scriptures 
for Salvation. 

The Holy Scriptures contain all 
things necessary to salvation : so 
that whatsoever is not read therein, 
nor may be proved thereby, is not 
to be required of any man, that it 
should be believed as an article of 
faith, or be thought requisite or 
necessary to salvation. In the 
name of the Holy Scripture, we 
do understand those canonical books 
of the Old and New Testament, of 
whose authority was never any 
doubt in the Church. 



probationer's manual. 



THE NAMES OF THE CANONICAL BOOKS. 

Genesis, 

Exodus, 

Leviticus, 

Numbers, 

Deuteronomy, 

Joshua, 

Judges, 

Ruth, 

The First Book of Samuel, 
The Second Book of Samuel, 
The First Book of Kings, 
The Second Book of Kings, 
The First Book of Chronicles, 
The Second Book of Chronicles, 
The Book of Ezra, 
The Book of Xehemiah, 
The Book of Esther, 
The Book of Job, 
The Psalms, 
The Proverbs, 

Ecclesiastes, or the Preacher, 
Cantica, or Song of Solomon, 
Four Prophets the greater, 
Twelve Prophets the less : 

All the books of the New Testa 
ment, as they are coramonly re 



24 



probationer's manual. 



ceived, we do receive and account 
canonical. 

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and 
is profitable for doctrine, . . . for instruction in 
righteousness. The holy Scrlptuies, which are able to 
made thee wise unto salvation. (2 Tim. iii, 16, 15.) 
Search the Scriptures, . . . they are they which 
testify of me. (John v, 39.) What thing soever I com- 
mand you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, 
nor diminish from it. (Deut. xii, 32.) In vain do they 
worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments 
of men. (Mark vii, 7.) 

VI. Of the Old Testament. 

The Old Testament is not con- 
trary to the New; for both in the 
Old and New Testament everlast- 
ing life is offered to mankind by 
Christ, who is the only Mediator 
between God and man, being both 
God and man. Wherefore they are 
not to be heard who feign that the 
old fathers did look only for tran- 
sitory promises. Although the law 



probationer's manual. 25 



given from God by Moses, as touch- 
ing ceremonies and rites, doth not 
bind Christians, nor ought the civil 
precepts thereof of necessity be re- 
ceived in any commonwealth ; yet, 
notwithstanding, no Christian what- 
soever is free from the obedience of' 
the commandments which are called 
moral. 

So worship I the God of my fathers, believing all 
things which are written in the law and in the proph- 
ets. (Acts xxiv, 14.) All things must be fulfilled 
which were written in the law of Moses, and in the 
prophets, and in the Psalms, concerning me. (Luke 
xxiv, 44.) The Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of 
us all. (Is. liii, 6.) Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, 
and thou shalt be saved. (Acts xvi, 31.) Let the 
wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his 
thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he 
will have mercy upon him, and to our God, for he 
will abundantly pardon. (Is.lv, 7.) Whosoever liveth 
and believeth in me shall never die. (John xi, 26.) 
Put them in mind ... to obey magistrates. 
(Titus iii, 1.) Thou knowest the commandments. 
(Mark x, 19.) Think not that I am come to destroy 
the law. ... I am not come to destroy, but to 
fulfill. (Matt, v, 17.) 



26 probationer's manual. 



VII. Of Original or Birth Sin. 

Original sin standeth not in the 
following of Adam (as the Pelagians 
do vainly talk), but it is the cor- 
ruption of the nature of every man, 
that naturally is engendered of the 
offspring of Adam, whereby man is 
very far gone from original right- 
eousness, and of his own nature in- 
clined to evil, and that continually. 

How can lie be clean that is born of a woman? 
(Job xxv, 4.) The carnal mind is enmity against 
God. (Rom. viii, 7.) 

VIII. Of Free Will. 

The condition of man after the 
fall of Adam is such that he can not 
turn and prepare himself, by his 
own natural strength and works, to 
faith, and calling upon God; where- 
fore we have no power to do good 
works, pleasant and acceptable to 



probationer's manual. 27 

God, without the grace of God by 
Christ preventing us, that we may- 
have a good will, and working with 
us, when Ave have that good will. 

They that are in the flesh can not please God. 
(Rom. viii, 8.) To will is present with me, but how to 
perform that which is good I find not, (Rom. vii, 18.) 
By the grace of God I am what I am. (1 Cor. xv 7 10.) 
It is God which worketh in you both to will and to do 
of his good pleasure. (Phil. ii ? 13.) 

IX. Of the Justification of Man. 

We are accounted righteous be- 
fore God only for the merit of our 
Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by 
faith, and not for our own works or 
deservings. Wherefore, that we are 
justified by faith only, is a most 
wholesome doctrine, and very full 
of comfort. 

By him all that believe are justified from all things 
from which ye could not be justified by the law of 
Moses. (Acts xiii, 89.) A man is justified by faith, 
without the deeds of the law. (Rom. iii, 28.) Abra- 



28 



probationer's manual. 



ham "believed God, and it was counted unto him for 
righteousness. (Rom. iv, 3.) He that believeth and is 
baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall 
be damned. (Mark xvi, 16.) Being justified by faith, 
we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 
(Rom. v, 1.) For we through the spirit wait for the 
hope of righteousness by faith. (Gal. v, 5) 

X. Of Good Works. 

Although good works, which are 
the fruits of faith, and follow after 
justification, can not put away our 
sins, and endure the severity of 
God's judgments; yet are they 
pleasing and acceptable to God in 
Christ, and spring out of a true and 
lively faith, insomuch that by them 
a lively faith may be as evidently 
known as a tree is discerned by its 
fruit. 

I will show thee my faith by my works. (Jas. 
ii, 18.) By the works of the law shall no flesh be 
justified. (Gal. ii, 16.) To do good and communicate 
forget not, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. 
(Heb. xiii, 16.) Faith without works is dead. (Jas. 
ii, 26.) 



probationer's manual. 29 



XI. Of Works of Supererogation. 

Voluntary works — besides, over, 
and above God's commandments- — 
"which are called works of superer- 
ogation, can not be taught without 
arrogancy and impiety. For by 
them men do declare that they do 
not only render unto God as much 
as they are bound to do, but that 
they do more for his sake than of 
bounden duty is required : whereas 
Christ saith plainly, When ye have 
done all that is commanded you, 
say, Yv 7 e are unprofitable servants. 
(Luke xvii, 10.) 

XII. Of Sin after Justification. 

Not every sin willingly commit- 
ted after justification is the sin 
against the Holy Ghost, and un- 
pardonable. Wherefore, the grant 



30 probationer's manual. 



of repentance is not to be denied 
to such as fall into sin after justifi- 
cation : after we have received the 
Holy Ghost, we may depart from 
grace given, and fall into sin, and, 
by the grace of God, rise again and 
amend our lives. And therefore 
they are to be condemned who say 
they can no more sin as long as 
they live here: or deny the place 
of forgiveness to such as truly 
repent. 

He that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost 
hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal 
damnation. (Mark iii, 29.) Brethren, if a man be 
overtaken in a fault, . . . restore such an one in 
the spirit of meekness. (Gal. vi, 1.) Return, ye 
backsliding children, and I will heal your backslid- 
ings. (Jer. iii, 22.) Remember . . . from whence 
thou art fallen, and repent. (Rev. ii, 5.) 

XIII. Of the Church. 

The visible Church of Christ is 
a congregation of faithful men, in 



probationer's manual. 



31 



which the pure word of God is 
preached, and the sacraments duly 
administered, according to Christ's 
ordinance, in all those things that of 
necessity are requisite to the same. 

Unto the Church of God which is at Corinth, to 
them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be 
saints. (1 Cor. i, 2.) And I, brethren, . . . came 
. . . declaring unto you the testimony of God. (1 
Cor. ii, 1.) They that gladly received his word were 
baptized. (Acts ii, 41.) And the Lord added to the 
Church daily such as should be saved. (Acts ii, 47.) 

XIV. Of Purgatory. 

The Romish doctrine concerning 
purgatory, pardon, worshiping and 
adoration as well of images ns of 
relics, and also invocation of saints, 
is a fond thing, vainly invented, 
and grounded upon no warrant of 
Scripture, but repugnant to the 
Word of God. 



Ye . . . shall die in your sins : whither I go, 
ye can not come. (John viii, 21.) Who can forgive 



32 



probationer's manual. 



sins but God alone? (Luke v, 21.) Ye shall make 
you no idols nor graven image, ... to bow down 
unto it. (Lev. xxvi, 1.) No man cometh unto the 
Father but by me. (John xiv, 6.) One mediator be- 
tween God and men, the man Christ Jesus. (1 Tim. 
ii, 5.) 

XV. Of speaking in the Congregation in such 
a Tongue as the People understand. 

It is a thing plainly repugnant 
to the Word of God, and the cus- 
tom of the primitive Church, to 
have public prayer in the Church, 
or to minister the sacraments, in 
a tongue not understood by the 
people. 

Except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be 
understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? 
(1 Cor. xiv, 9.) In the Church I had rather speak five 
words with my understanding, that by my voice I 
might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an 
unknown tongue. (1 Cor, xiv, 19.) 

XVI. Of the Sacraments. 

Sacraments, ordained of Christ, 
are not only badges or tokens of 



probationer's manual. 33 
* 

Christian men's profession; but 
rather they are certain signs of v 
grace, and God's good will toward 
us, by the which he doth work in- 
visibly in us, and doth not only 
quicken, but also strengthen and 
confirm our faith in him. 

There are two sacraments or- 
dained of Christ our Lord in the 
Gospel; that is to say, Baptism, 
and the Supper of the Lord. 

Those five commonly called sacra- 
ments — that is to say, confirmation, 
penance, orders, matrimony, and 
extreme unction — are not to be 
counted for sacraments of the Gos- 
pel, being such as have partly grown 
out of the corrupt following of the 
apostles; and partly are states of 
life allowed in the Scriptures, but 
yet have not the like nature of 

3 



34 probationer's manual. 



Baptism and the Lord's-supper, be- 
cause they have not any visible sign 
or ceremony ordained of God. 

The sacraments were not or- 
dained of Christ to be gazed upon, 
or to be carried about; but that we 
should duly use them. And in 
such only as worthily receive the 
the same, they have a wholesome 
effect or operation: but they that 
receive them unworthily, purchase 
to themselves condemnation, as St. 
Paul saith. (1 Cor. xi, 29.) 

Go, . . . teach all nations, baptizing them in 
the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the 
Holy Ghost. (Matt, xxviii, 19.) Jesus took bread, 
and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disci- 
ples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he 
took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, 
saying, Drink ye all of it: for this is my blood of the 
new testament, which is shed for many for the remis- 
sion of sins. (Matt, xxvi, 26-28.) This do in remem- 
brance of me. (Luke xxii, 19.) 



probationer's manual. 



35 



XVII. Of Baptism. 
Baptism is not only a sign of 
profession, and mark of difference, 
whereby Christians are distin- 
guished from others that are not 
baptized : but it is also a sign of 
regeneration, or the new birth. The 
baptism of young children is to be 
retained in the Church. 

Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, 
calling on the name of the Lord. (Acts xxii, 16.) Can 
any man forbid water, that these should not be bap- 
tized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as 
we? (Acts x, 47.) Repent and be baptized, every one 
of you. . . . For the promise is unto you, and to 
your children. (Acts ii, 38, 39.) 

XVIII. Of the Lord's-Supper. 

The Supper of the Lord is not 
only a sign of the love that Chris- 
tians ouodit to have anion p: them- 
selves one to another, but rather is 
a sacrament of our redemption by 



86 probationer's manual. 



Christ's death; insomuch that, to 
such as rightly, worthily, and with 
faith receive the same, the bread 
which we break is a partaking of 
the body of Christ; and likewise 
the cup of blessing is a partaking 
of the blood of Christ. 

Transubstantiation, or the change 
of the substance of bread and wine 
in the Supper of our Lord, can not 
be proved by Holy Writ, but is 
repugnant to the plain words of 
Scripture, overthroweth the nature 
of a sacrament, and hath given 
occasion to many superstitions. 

The body of Christ is given, 
taken, and eaten in the Supper, 
only after a heavenly and spiritual 
manner. And the means whereby 
the body of Christ is received and 
eaten in the Supper, is faith. 



probationer's manual. 



37 



The sacrament of the Lord's- 
supper was not by Christ's ordi- 
nance reserved, carried about, lifted 
up, or worshiped. 

The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the 
communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which 
we "break, is it not the communion of the body of 
Christ? For we being many are . . . one body: 
for we are all partakers of that one bread. (1 Cor. x, 
16, 17.) As often as ye eat this bread, and drink this 
cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come. (1 Cor. 
xi, 26.) 

XIX. Of both Kinds. 

The cup of the Lord is not to be , 
denied to the lay people; for both 
the parts of the Lord's-supper, by 
Christ's ordinance and command- 
ment, ought to be administered to 
all Christians alike. 

Drink ye all [all ye] of it, (Matt, xxvi, 27.) 

XX. Of the one Oblation of Christ, finished 
upon the Cross. 

The offering of Christ, once made, 

is that perfect redemption, propitia- 



38 PROBATIONER* S MANUAL. 



tion, and satisfaction for all the sins 
of the whole world, both original 
and actual: and there is none other 
satisfaction for sin but that alone. 
Wherefore the sacrifice of masses, 
in the which it is commonly said 
that the priest doth offer Christ for 
the quick and the dead, to have re- 
mission of pain or guilt, is a blas- 
phemous fable, and dangerous de- 
ceit. 

By one offering lie hath perfected forever them that 
are sanctified. (Heb. x, 14.) Who his own self bare 
our sins in his own body on the tree. (1 Pet. ii ? 24.) 
Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many. 
(Heb. ix, 28.) 

XXI. Of the Marriage of Ministers. 

The ministers of Christ are not 
commanded by God's law either to 
vow the estate of single life, or to 
abstain from marriage; therefore it 
is lawful for them, as for all other 



probationer's manual. 



39 



Christians, to many at their own 
discretion, as they shall judge the 
same to serve best to godliness.- 

A bishop . . . must be blameless, the husband 
of one wife. (1 Tim. iii, 2.) Have we not power to 
lead ^about . . . a wife, as well as other apostles, 
and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas? (1 Cor. 
ix, 5.) 

XXII. Of the Rites and Ceremonies of 
Churches. 

It is not necessary that rites and 
ceremonies should in all places be 
the same, or exactly alike; for they 
have been always different, and 
may be changed according to the 
diversity of countries, times, and 
men's manners, so that nothing be 
ordained against God's Word. Who- 
soever, through his private judg- 
ment, willingly and purposely doth 
openly break the rites and ceremo- 
nies of the Church to which he 



40 probationer's manual. 

belongs, which are not repugnant to 
the Word of God, and are ordained 
and approved by common authority, 
ought to be rebuked openly, that 
others may fear to do the like, 
as one that offendeth against the 
common order of the Church, and 
woundeth the consciences of weak 
brethren. 

Every particular Church may 
ordain, change, or abolish rites and 
ceremonies, so that all things may 
be done to edification. 

Let all things be done unto edifying, . . . de- 
cently, and in order. (1 Cor. xiv, 26, 40.) It seemed 
good to the. Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no 
greater burden than these necessary things; that ye 
abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, 
and from things strangled, and from fornication: from 
which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. (Acts 
xv, 28, 29.) Withdraw yourselves from every brother 
that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition 
which he received from us. (2 Thess. iii, 6.) 



probationer's manual. 41 



XXIII. Of the Rulers of the United States 
of America.* 

The President, the Congress, the 
General Assemblies, the Governors, 
and the Councils of State, as the 
delegates of the people, are the rulers 
of the United- States of America, 
according to the division of power 
made to them by the Constitution 
of the United States, and by the 
Constitutions of their respective 

*As far as it respects civil affairs, we be- 
lieve it the duty of Christians, and espe- 
cially-all Christian ministers, to be subject 
to the supreme authority of the country 
where they may reside, and to use all lauda- 
ble means to enjoin obedience to the powers 
that be; and therefore it is expected that all 
our preachers and people, who may be under 
the British or any other Government, will 
behave themselves as peaceable and orderly 
subjects. 



42 probationer's manual. 

States. And the said States are a 
sovereign and independent nation, 
and ought not to be subject to any 
foreign jurisdiction. 

The powers that be are ordained of God. Whoso- 
ever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordi- 
nance of God. . . . Rulers are not a terror to 
good works, but to the evil. (Rom. xiii, 1-3.) 

XXIV. Of Christian Men's Goods. 

The riches and goods of Chris- 
tians are not common, as touching 
the right, title, and possession of 
the same, as some do falsely boast. 
Notwithstanding, every man ought, 
of such things as he possesseth, 
liberally to give alms to the poor, 
according to his ability. 

While it remained, was it not thine own? and 
after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? 
(Acts v, 4.) But whoso hath this world's good, and 
seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his 
bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love 
of God in him? (1 John iii, 17.) 



probationer's manual. 43 



XXV. Of a Christian M^'s Oath. 

As we confess that vain and rash 
swearing is forbidden Christian men 
by our Lord Jesus Christ and James 
his apostle; so we judge that the 
Christian religion doth not prohibit, 
but that a man may swear when 
the magistrate requireth, in a cause 
of faith and charity, so it be done 
according to the prophet's teaching, 
in justice, judgment, and truth. 

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God 
in yain. (Ex. xx, 7.) I say unto you, Swear not at 
all. (Matt, v, 34.) Jesus held his peace. And the 
high-priest answered and said, ... I adjure thee 
by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be 
the Christ, the son of God. Jesus saith unto him, 
Ihcu hast said. (Matt, xxvi, 63, 64.) 



44 probationer's manual. 



SECTION IT. 

DOCTRINES NOT IN " THE ARTICLES." 

There are doctrines commonly held and 
preached in the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
but to which the candidate for membership 
is not asked to assent. He will do well, 
however, to canvass these doctrines also. 
Upon the following seven points, Methodism 
is and ever has been very pronounced. They 
are probably the subject of more Methodist 
preaching than all the twenty -five Articles : 

J. Repentance. — Making and putting into 
practice a resolution to " cease to do evil, 
and learn to do well." 

Let the wicked forsake Lis way, and the unrighteous 
man his thoughts, and let him return unto the Lord. 
(Is. lv, 7.) Bring forth . . . fruits meet for 
repentance. (Matt, iii, 8.) Godly sorrow worketh 
repentance. (2 Cor. vii, 10.) I will arise and go to 
my Father. . . . And he arose and came to his 
father. (Luke xv, 18, 20.) 



PROBATIONER* S MANUAL. 45 



2. Justification. — Pardon, excusing from 
all penalty due for any and all sins previ- 
ously committed. 

Being justified by faith, we have peace with God 
through our Lord Jesus Christ. (Rom. v, 1.) And 
you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision 
of your flesh, hath he quickened, . . . having 
forgiven you all trespasses, (Col. ii, 13.) There is 
. . . now no condemnation to them which are in 
Christ Jesus. (Rom. viii, 1.) 

3. Regeneration. — A change wrought in 
the soul by the Holy Spirit, removing the 
sinfulness of the subject, making him " a 
new creature " in the character and objects 
of his affections. 

Ye must be born again. (John iii, 7.) Saved 
. . . by the washing of regeneration, and renewing 
of the Holy Ghost. (Titus iii, 5.) Be renewed in the 
spirit of your mind. (Eph. iv, 23.) We all had our 
conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, 
fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; 
. . . but God . . . hath quickened us together 
with Christ. (Eph. ii, 3-5.) The works of the flesh 
are . . . adultery, . . . idolatry, 
. . . hatred, . . . envyings, . . . revel- 
ings, and such like: . . . but the fruit of the 
Spirit is love, joy, , . . long-suffering, 
goodness, faith, . . . temperance. . . . And 



46 probationer's manual. 



they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the 
affections and lusts. (Gal. v, 19-24.) 

4. The Witness of the Spirit. — God makes 
known to the soul the facts of pardon and 
regeneration. 

We know that we have passed from death unto life, 
because we love the brethren. (1 John iii, 14.) The 
Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit that we 
are the children of God. (Rom. viii, 16.) 

5. Holiness. — It is the privilege and duty 
of the regenerated to live without sinning. 

Whosoever is born of God sinneth not. (1 John 
v, 18.) Be ye holy in all manner of conversation. 
(1 Pet. i, 15.) Now unto him that is able to keep you 
from falling, and to present you faultless before the 
presence of his glory. (Jude 24.) I pray God your 
whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blame- 
less unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 
Thess. v. 23.) 

6. The Atonement for All. — Jesus suffered 
and died for every man ; not for any one 
mare than for every other. 

The Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. 
(Is. liii, 6.) Whosoever will, let him take the water 
of life freely. (Rev. xxii, 17.) 



probationer's manual. 47 



7. Final Apostasy Possible. — A man for- 
given and renewed may "fall away," come 
into condemnation again, and die therein ; 
and so become " a castaway." 

It had been better for them not to have known the 
way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, 
to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto 
them. (2 Pet. ii, 21.) I keep under my body, and 
bring it into subjection; lest that by any means, when 
I have preached to others, I myself should be a cast- 
away. (1 Cor. 9, 27.) 



♦ 



48 



probationer's manual. 



SECTION" V. 

THE GENERAL RULES. 

When presenting himself for membership 
in the Church, the probationer meets this 
question, "Will you cheerfully be governed 
by the rules of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church?" These rules, covering three pages 
of the Discipline, should be studied as care- 
fully as the Articles of Eeligion. Accepting 
these rules is a vow far more solemn than a 
declaration of belief. 

These rules, all save one, were prepared 
by John and Charles Wesley, for their soci- 
eties, in the first years of Methodism in 
England. They wrote, May 1, 1743, as 
follows : 

These are the General Rules of 
our societies; all which we are 
taught of God to observe, even in 



probationer's manual. 49 

his written word, which is the only 
rule, and the sufficient rule, both of 
our faith and practice. And all 
these we know his Spirit writes on 
truly awakened hearts. If there 
be any among us who observe them 
not, who habitually break any of 
them, let it be known unto them 
who watch over that soul as they 
who must give an account. We 
will admonish him of the error of 
his w T ays. We will bear with him 
for a season. But if then he re- 
pent not, he hath no more place 
among us. We have delivered our 
own souls. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church adopted 

these rules (including an additional rule, 

that upon slavery) at its organization. The 

above language of the Wesleys was at the 

same time placed in the Book of Discipline. 

]STo change can be made in these rules 
* 4 



50 probationer's manual. 



except by a two-thirds' vote of the General 
Conference, and a three-fourths' vote in the 
Annual Conferences. The only essential 
changes that have been made related to 
drunkenness and slavery. After various at- 
tempts to improve the original rule upon 
drunkenness, the Church, in 1848, restored 
the exact language of the Wesleys. The 
rule upon slavery, seemingly superfluous 
now in the United States, will be needed 
until this form of sin shall cease in- all 
lands. 

The person joining the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church solemnly promises to be gov- 
erned by these rules. The Church claims 
Scripture warrant for these rules. If these 
prohibitions and requirements are found in 
the Bible, all men are in duty bound by 
them. And whoever has covenanted to try 
to do every duty, has subscribed to these 
rules so far as they are enjoined in the 
"written "Word." And if any one of these 
specific rules has not an express Scripture 
warrant, still the Church does not transcend 
its prerogative in enjoining it, provided the 
rule be not contrary to the letter and spirit 
of the Word of God. 



probationer's manual. 



51 



There is only one condition pre- 
viously required of those who de- 
sire admission into these societies, 
"a desire to flee from the wrath to 
come, and to be saved from their 
sins." But wherever this is really 
fixed in the soul, it will be shown 
by its fruits. It is therefore ex- 
pected of all who continue therein, 
that they should continue to evi- 
dence their desire of salvation, 

First, By doing no harm, by 
avoiding evil of every kind, espe- 
cially that which is most generally 
practiced; such as, 

The taking of the name of God 
in vain. 

Cease to do evil. (Is. i, 16.) Thou shalt not take 
the name of the Lord thy God in vain. (Ex. xx, 7.) 

The profaning the day of the 
Lord, either by doing ordinary 



52 



probationer's manual. 



work therein, or by buying or 
selling. 

Remember the Sabbath-day, to keep it holy. (Ex. 
xx, 8.) In it thou shalt not do any work. (Deut. 
v. 14.) Six days thou shalt work, but on the seventh day 
thou shalt rest: in earing time and in harvest thou 
shalt rest. (Ex. xxxiv, 21.) In those days saw I in 
Judah some treading wine-presses on the Sabbath, and 
bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; . . . and 
I testified against them. . . . There dwelt men of 
Tyre also therein which brought fish, and all manner 
of ware, and sold on the Sabbath. . . . Then I 
contended with the nobles of Judah, and said unto 
them, What evil thing is this that ye do, and profane 
the Sabbath-day? (Neh. xiii, 15-17.) 

Drunkenness, buying or selling 
spirituous liquors, or drinking them, 
unless in cases of extreme necessity. 

Wine is a mocker. (Prov. xx, 1.) Woe unto him 
that giveth his neighbor drink. (Hab. ii, 15.) Nor 
drunkards, . . . shall inherit the kingdom of God. 
(1 Cor. vi, 10.) Use a little wine for thy stomach's 
sake, and thine often infirmities. (1 Tim. v, 23.) 

Slaveholding ; baying or selling 
slaves. 

Let the oppressed go free, . . . break every 
yoke. (Is. lviii, 6.) I will not turn away the punish- 



probationer's manual. 



53 



ment thereof, because they sold the righteous for silver, 
and the poor for a pair of shoes. (Amos ii, 6.) 

Fighting, quarreling, brawling, 
brother going to laiv with brother; 
returning evil for evil, or railing 
for railing; the using many words in 
birring or selling. 

Be no "brawlers, but gentle, showing all meekness 
unto all men. (Titus iii, 2.) Now, therefore, there is 
utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one 
with another. (1 Cor. vi, 7.) Let your conversation 
be without covetouess. (Heb. xiii, 5.) 

The laying or selling goods that 
have not paid the duty. 

Render ... to all their dues ; tribute to whom 
tribute is due, custom to whom custom. (Rom. xiii, 7.) 

The giving or tahing things on 
usury ; that is, unlawful interest. 

What mean ye that ye . . . grind the faces of 
the poor? (Is. iii, 15.) I have written unto you not 
to keep company if any man that is called a brother 
be covetous, . . . or an extortioner. 

(1 Cor. v, 11.) Nor thieves, . . . nor extortioners, 
shall inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Cor. vi, 10.) 



54 probationer's manual. 



Uncharitable or unprofitable con- 
versation ; particularly, speaking 
evil of magistrates or of ministers. 

Speak evil of no man. (Titus iii, 2.) Presumptu- 
ous, . . . self-willed, . . . not afraid to speak 
evil of dignities. (2 Pet. ii, 10.) We beseech you, 
brethren, to know them which . . . are over you 
in the Lord, . . . and to esteem them very highly 
in love for their work's sake. (1 Thess. v, 12, 13.) 
Hold such in reputation. (Phil, ii, 29.) 

Doing to others as we would not 
they should do unto us. 

All things whatsoever ye would that men should do 
to you, do ye even so to them. (Matt, vii, 12.) 

Doing what we know is not for 
the glory of God; as, 

The putting on of gold and costly 
apparel. 

That women adorn themselves in modest apparel, 
... not with gold, ... or costly array. (1 
Tim. ii, 9.) 

The taking such diversions as can 
not be used in the name of the 
Lord Jesus. 



probationer's manual. 



56 



Be not conformed to this world; but be ye trans- 
formed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may 
prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect 
will of God. (Rom. xii, 2.) 

The singing those songs, or read- 
ing those books, which do not tend 
to the knowledge or love of Grod. 

o 

Whatsoever ye do, in word or deed, do all in the 
name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the 
Father by him. (Col. iii, 17.) 

Softness and needless self-indul- 
gence. 

For if ye live after the flesh ye shall die. (Rom. 
viii, 13.) He that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh 
reap corruption. (Gal. yi 3 8.) 

Laying up treasure upon earth. 

• Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth. 
(Matt, vi, 19.) 

Borrowing without a probability 
of paying; or taking up goods 
without a probability of paying for 
them. 

Providing for honest things ... in the sight 
of men. (2 Cor. viii, 21.) 



56 probationer's manual. 



Secondly, By doing good; by 
being in every kind merciful after 
their power; as they have oppor- 
tunity, doing good of every possi- 
ble sort, and, as far as possible, to 
all men. 

As we have opportunity, let us do good unto all 
men. (Gal. vi, 10.) 

To their bodies, of the ability 
Avhich God giveth, by giving food 
to the hungry, by clothing the 
naked, by visiting or helping them 
that are sick or in prison. 

He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that 
hath none. (Luke iii, 11.) If thine enemy hunger, 
feed him; if he thirst, give him drink. (Rom. xii, 20 ) 
Whoso hath this world's good, . . . and shutteth 
up his bowels of compassion, . . . how dwelleth 
the love of God in him? (1 John iii, 17.) 

To their souls, by instructing, 
reproving, or exhorting all we have 
any intercourse with; trampling 
under foot that enthusiastic doc- 



probationer's manual. 57 



trine that "we are not to do good 
unless our hearts be free to it!' 

Be instant in season, out of season: reprove, re- 
buke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. 
(2 Tim. iv, 2.) 

By doing good especially to them 
that are of the household of faith 
or groaning so to be; employing 
them preferably to others; buying 
one of another; helping each other 
in business ; and so much the more 
because the world will love its own 
and them only. 

Do good, . . . especially unto them who are of 
the household of faith. (Gal. vi, 10.) Love the broth- 
erhood. (1 Peter ii, 17.) 

By all possible diligence and fru- 
gality^ that the Gospel be not 
blamed. 

Not slothful in business. (Eom. xii, 11.) Gather 
up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. 
(John vi, 12.) 



58 probationer's manual. 

By running with patience the 
race which is set before them, de- 
nying themselves and taking up 
their cross daily; submitting to 
bear the reproach of Christ, to be 
as the filth and offscouring of the 
world ; and looking that men should 
say all manner of evil of them 
falsely for the Lord's sake. 

Let us run with patience the race that is set before 
us. (Heb. xii, 1.) If any man will come after me, let 
him deny himself and take up his cross daily. (Luke 
ix, 23.) We are made as the filth of the world, and 
are the offscouring of all things unto this day. (1 Cor. 
iv, 13.) The disciple is not above his master. . . , 
If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, 
how much more shall they call them of his household? 
(Matt, x, 24, 25.) 

Thirdly, By attending upon all 
the ordinances of God ; such are. 

The public worship of God. 

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into 
his courts with praise. (Ps. c, 4.) 



probationer's manual. 59 



The ministry of the Word, either 
read or expounded : 

As ye go, preach. . ' . . Whosoever shall not 
receive you nor hear your words, . . . shake off 
the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. 
(Matt, x, 7, 14; Mark vi, 11.) 

The Supper of the Lord : 

This do. (Luke xxii, 19.) 

Family and private prayer: 

Pour out thy fury . . . upon the families that 
call not on thy name. (Jer. x, 25.) When thou pray- 
est, enter into thy closet, and . . . pray to thy 
Father which is in secret. (Matt, vi, 6.) 

Searching the Scriptures : 

These were more noble ... in that they . . . 
searched the Scriptures daily whether those things 
were so. (Acts xvii, 11.) 

Fasting or abstinence. 

When thou fastest, . . . appear not unto men to 
fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret. (Matt, 
vi, 17, 18.) This kind goeth not out but by prayer 
and fasting. (Matt, xvii, 21.) 



60 



probationer's manual. 



SECTION VI. 

MARRIAGE, DRESS, THE COMMUNION, AND 
REMOVAL OF CHURCH MEMBERSHIP. 

The probationer needs to know the sen- 
timent and rule of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church upon these points. 

Marriage. 

Many of our members have 
married with unaivaJcened persons. 
This has produced bad effects ; they 
have been either hindered for life, 
or have turned back to perdition. 
We do not prohibit our people from 
marrying persons who are not of 
our Church, provided such persons 
have the form and are seeking the 
power of godliness; but we are 



probationer's manual. 



61 



determined to discourage their mar- 
rying persons who do not come up 
to this description. 

Let every preacher publicly en- 
force the apostle's caution, "Be ye 
not unequally yoked together with 
unbelievers." (2 Cor. vi, 14.) 

Dress. 

We should by all means insist on 
the rules concerning: dress. This 
is no time to encourage superfluity 
in dress. Therefore let all our 
people be exhorted to conform to 
the spirit of the apostolic precept 
not to adorn themselves "with 
gold, or pearls, or costly array." 
(1 Tim. ii, 9.) 

Does not modest and simple apparel best 
befit a follower of the "meek and lowly in 
heart?" Is it not also the more beautiful '? 
Can any display in dress substitute culture 



62 probationer's manual. 



of mind and goodness of heart? And be- 
sides, will the many and loud cries from 
Macedonia warrant a Christian in costly 
personal adornings? 

The Communion. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church uses the 
following language in extending invitation 
to the sacrament of the Lord 's-s upper : 

If any man sin, we have an ad- 
vocate with the Feather, Jesus 
Christ the righteous : and he is the 
propitiation for our sins : and not 
for ours only, but also for the sins 
of the whole world. 

Wherefore, ye that do truly and 
earnestly repent of your sins, and 
are in love and charity with your 
neighbors, and intend to lead a new 
life, following the commandments 
of God, and walking from hence- 
forth in his holy ways; draw near 
with faith, and take this holy sac- 



probationer's manual. 



63 



rament to your comfort; and, de- 
voutly kneeling, make your humble 
confession to Almighty God. 

Removal of Membership. 

In the Methodist Episcopal Church the 
pastor gives and receives all letters of mem- 
bership. In removing from one Methodist 
society to another, the member needs " a 
note of recommendation from the preacher 
in charge in these words : * A. B., the bearer, 
has been an acceptable member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church.' " U A preacher 
may give a note of recommendation to any 
member who wishes to unite with any other 
e va n gel i ca 1 d en o mi n at! on." 

In withdrawing from the Church, the 
consent of the Church is to be obtained. 
Any member against whom no other mem- 
ber is ready to prefer charges has a right to 
withdraw. Absence or non-residence does 
not terminate membership in the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. Once a member, a per- 
son remains a member until withdrawal or 
expulsion, or removal by letter or death. 



64 probationer's manual. 



SECTION VI. 

OCCASIONS AND METHODS OF DISCIPLINE 
IN THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL 
CHURCH. 

i. Immoral Conduct. 

For immoral conduct, . . . 
crime, . . . such as is expressly 
forbidden by the Word of God, 
sufficient to exclude a person from 
the kingdom of grace and glory, 
. . . an accused member .shall 
be brought to trial before a com- 
mittee of not less than five, who 
shall not be members of the quar- 
terly conference, in the presence of 
the preacher in charge, who shall 
preside in the trial. If the accused 
person be found guilty by the deci- 



probationer's manual. 



65 



sion of a majority of the com- 
mittee, ... let the preacher in 
charge expel him. 

2. Neglect of the Means of Grace. 

Other occasions for trial and exclusion 
are stated by the Discipline thus : 

Habitual and willful neglect of 
the means of grace; such as the 
public worship of God, the Supper 
of the Lord, family and private 
prayer, searching the Scriptures, 
class-meetings, and prayer-meetings. 

3. Imprudent Conduct. 

In cases of neglect of duties of 
any kind, imprudent conduct, in- 
dulging sinful tempers or words, the 
buying, selling, or using intoxicat- 
ing liquors as a beverage, dancing, 
playing at games of chance, attend- 
ing theaters, horse-races, circuses, 
s 



66 probationer's manual. 

dancing-parties, or patronizing danc- 
ing-schools, or taking such other 
amusements as are obviously of mis- 
leading or questionable moral tend- 
ency, or disobedience to the order 
and discipline of the Church; first 
let private reproof be given. . . . 
On a second offense, [reproof in the 
presence of] one or two faithful 
friends. On a third offense, . . . 
trial, and if found guilty, and there 
be no sign of real humiliation, he 
shall be expelled. 

4. Dissension. 

If a member, . . . accused of 
endeavoring to sow dissension . . . 
by inveighing against either our 
doctrines or discipline, . . . shall 
. . . persist in such pernicious 
practice, he shall be brought to 
trial and, if found guilty, expelled. 



probationer's manual. 67 



5. Disagreement in Business, and Non-pay- 
ment of Debts. 

On any disagreement between 
two or more members of our Church 
concerning; business transactions, 
which can not be settled by the 
parties, the preacher in charge 
shall inquire into jthe circumstances 
of the case, and shall recommend 
to the parties a reference, consist- 
ing of two arbiters chosen by the 
plaintiff, and two chosen by the 
defendant, which four arbiters so 
chosen shall nominate a fifth; the 
five arbiters being members of our 
Church. 

If either party refuse to abide 
their judgment he shall be brought 
to trial, and if he fail to show suf- 
ficient cause for such refusal he 
shall be expelled. 



68 probationer's manual. 



If any member of our Church 
shall refuse, in cases of debt or 
other disputes, to refer the matter 
to arbitration when recommended 
by the preacher in charge, or shall 
enter into a lawsuit with another • 
member before these measures are 
taken, he shall be brought to trial, 
and if he fail to show that the case 
is of such a nature as to require 
and justify a process at law he 
shall be expelled. 

6. Insolvency on the part of any of our 
Members. 

To prevent scandal, when any of 
our members fail in business, or 
contract debts which they are not 
able to pay, let two or three judi- 
cious members of the Church in- 
spect the accounts, contracts, and 
circumstances of the case of the 



probationer's manual. 69 



supposed delinquent; and if they 
judge that he has behaved dishon- 
estly or borrowed money without a 
probability of paying, let him be 
brought to trial and, if found guilty, 
expelled. 

7. General Directions. 

In all the foregoing cases of trial 
witnesses from without shall not be 
rejected. . . . The accused shall 
have the right to call to his assist- 
ance as counsel any member in 
good and regular standing in the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

Any excluded person, . . . not 
having absented himself from trial 
after due notice was given him, 
shall be allowed an appeal to the 
next quarterly conference. 

After such forms of trial and 
expulsion, such person shall have 



70 probationer's manual. 



no privileges of society or of sac- 
raments in our Church, without 
contrition, confessicn ; and satisfac- 
tory reformation. 



probationer's manual. 



71 



SECTION" VIII. 

THE PROBATIONER UNITING WITH THE 
CHURCH. 

The appointed "six months" having 
passed, and the candidate having been bap- 
tized, it is next necessary that he be "rec- 
ommended by the leaders' and stewards' 
meeting, or, where no such meeting is held, 
by the leader." The probationer is reason- 
ably supposed to have studied the doctrinal 
"Articles" and the "Eules," comparing them 
with the "Word of God, and to have prayer- 
fully and intelligently chosen a home in the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

Now comes the formal and solemn com- 
pact between the Church and its incoming 
new member. IsTo previous public notice of 
the service is required. In any gathering 
in which the Church is suitably represented, 
the acceptable probationer may be admitted 
to Church membership. 



72 probationer's manual. 



The following is the Disciplinary form 
for receiving persons into the Church after 
probation : 

Upon the day appointed, all that are to be 
received shall be called forward, and the 
minister, addressing the congregation, shall 
say, 

Dearly beloyed brethren, — The 
Scriptures teach us that the Church 
is the household of God, the body 
of which Christ is the head, and 
that it is the design of the Gospel 
to bring together in one all who are 
in Christ. The fellowship of the 
Church is the communion that its 
members enjoy, one with another. 
The ends of this fellowship are, the 
maintenance of sound doctrine and 
of the ordinances of Christian wor- 
ship, and the exercise of that power 
of godly admonition and discipline 
which Christ has committed to his 



probationer's manual. 73 

Church for the promotion of holi- 
ness. It is the duty of all men to 
unite in this fellowship, for it is 
only those that "be planted in the 
house of the Lord that shall flour- 
ish in the courts of our God." Its 
more particular duties are, to pro- 
mote peace and unity; to bear one 
another's burdens; to prevent each 
other's stumbling; to seek the inti- 
macy of friendly society among 
themselves; to continue steadfast 
in the faith and worship of the 
Gospel; and to pray and sympa- 
thize with each other. Among its 
privileges are, peculiar incitements 
to holiness from the hearing of 
God's Word and sharing in Christ's 
ordinances ; the being placed under 
the watchful care of pastors; and 
the enjoyment of the blessings 



74 probationer's manual. 



which are promised only to those 
who are of the household of faith. 
Into this holy fellowship the per- 
sons before you, who have already 
received the sacrament of baptism, 
and have been under the care of 
proper leaders for six months on 
trial, come seeking admission. We 
now propose, in the fear of God, to 
question them as to their faith and 
purposes, that you may know that 
they are proper persons to be ad- 
mitted into the Church. 

Then, addressing the applicants for admission, 
the minister shall say. 

Dearly beloved, you are ceme 
hither seeking the great privilege 
of union with the Church our Savior 
has purchased with his own blood. 
We rejoice in the grace of God 
vouchsafed unto you in that he has 



probationer's manual. 



75 



called you to be his followers, and 
that thus far you have run well. 
You have heard how blessed are 
the privileges and how solemn are 
the duties of membership in Christ's 
Church; and before you are fully 
admitted thereto, it is proper that 
you do here publicly renew your 
vows, confess your faith, and de- 
clare your purpose, by answering 
the following questions : 

Do you here, in the presence of 
God and of this congregation, renew 
the solemn promise contained in the 
baptismal covenant, ratifying and 
confirming the same, and acknowl- 
edging yourselves bound faithfully 
to observe and keep that covenant? 

Ans. I do. 

Have you saving faith in the 
Lord Jesus Christ? 



76 probationer's manual. 



Ans. I trust I have. 

Do you believe in the doctrines 
of Holy Scripture, as set forth in 
the Articles of Religion of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church ? 

Ans. I do. 

Will you cheerfully be governed 
by the rules of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church, hold sacred the ordi- 
nances of God, and endeavor, as 
much as in you lies, to promote 
the welfare of your brethren and 
the advancement of the Redeemer's 
kingdom? 

Ans. I will. 

Will you contribute of your 
earthly substance, according to your 
ability, to the support of the Gos- 
pel, and the various benevolent 
enterprises of the Church? 

Ans. I will. 



probationer's manual. 



77 



Then the minister, addressing the Church, shall 
say, 

Brethren, you have heard the 
responses given to our inquiries. 
Have any of you reason to allege 
why these persons should not be 
received into full membership in 
the Church? 

No objection being alleged, the minister shall say 
to the candidates, 

We welcome you to the com- 
munion of the Church of God ; and 
in testimony of our Christian affec- 
tion and the cordiality with which 
we receive you, I hereby extend to 
you the right hand of fellowship; 
and may God grant that you may 
be a faithful and useful memler of 
the Church militant till you are 
called to the fellowship of the 
Church triumphant, which is 



78 probationer's manual. 



" without fault before the throne 
of God." 

Then shall the minister offer extemporary prayer. 

The Church, in not objecting to the pro- 
posed new member, silently and solemnly 
gives a covenanting welcome to Christian 
sympathy, watch-care, and help in the vis- 
ible fold of Christ. And with '*the right 
hand of fellowship" given by the pastor, 
"the great transaction's done," the mem- 
bership is consummated, the holiest vows 
possible on earth become binding, the holiest 
relations in this state of being are entered 
into — more solemn and more binding than 
marriage even, for the Head of the Church 
gives no warrant for seeking separation from 
the Church. Denominational relations may 
be honorably and sometimes in duty changed ; 
but whoever separates himself from the vis- 
ible Church, and thus sunders the bond 
which betokens his relation to Christ, does 
rashly, dangerously, and without the promise 
of a benediction. 

"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; they 
shall prosper that love thee." 



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